Elvis Costello

Elvis Costello came out of the U.K. punk scene in the mid-'70s, but he was smarter, sharper and more literate than most of his peers. His versatility helped him adapt and change course several times over the years. He's made pop records, R&B records, classical records, hip-hop records and Americana records. He was born Declan McManus in London, but by the time he released his debut album (recorded with future members of Huey Lewis' News!) in 1977, he had renamed himself in equal bits tribute and arrogance. That combination helped him soar through the decades with pivotal works like 'My Aim Is True,' 'This Year's Model' and 'Imperial Bedroom.'